Why You Should Buy Your Cold Weather Base Layers Right Now

These three brands make it easy for you to beat with impending Polar Vortex without adding unnecessary bulk

It's hard to admit, but Summer is all but a memory at this point. Though we're currently basking in the glory of crisp but comfortable fall days, in just a few short weeks, the icy chill of winter will descend upon America's northern states. That means layering up will become practically a requirement of all men. But, keeping warm doesn't have to mean piling on sweaters, scarves, and coats. Instead, some thin base layers are all you need to avoid hypothermia. Each of these three labels make shirts, leggings, and more you can wear in any situation this winter. Buy them now before your annual winter hibernation begins (or worse, they sell out). Here's what to pick up from each.

Uniqlo Heattech:Because being twice as warm doesn't mean spending twice the money.
Each year, city-dwellers and mountain climbers descend upon Uniqlo for the glory that are the label's Heattech leggings. Thin, warm, and best of all, inexpensive, it's no wonder why these tend to sell out before the end of October. And the thin, slim-fit shirts are perfect for getting warm under your shirt and tie without turning into the Michelin man. So, yeah, get shopping if you want a little extra warmth under your suit pants and jeans this season without breaking the bank.Leggings, $19.90, available at uniqlo.comStriped T-shirt, $19.90, available at uniqlo.com

Under Armour Cold Gear:For when the three block walk to the gym feels like a trek across the tundra.
Under Armour's Cold Gear has been a staple of winter gym rat wardrobes since the company's inception. So, on those days when you're brave enough to get in a run when the snow is falling, wear them under your gym shorts. Or, slip into them when you simply don't think your sweatpants will cut it on your journey to the coffee shop. The point is, it's never a bad idea to invest in the company that literally claims to be armor you wear under your clothes.Leggings, $49.99, available at macys.com

Aether Base Layer:Wear it to work, wear it to the gym, or basically anywhere that the cold might try to sneak up on you.
Aether's signature Base Layer are the middle ground between nine-to-five and gym warmth. In addition to shirts and leggings, they've also got a perfectly city-appropriate merino wool polo that would look just as comfortable under a tweed blazer as it would with a pair of sweatpants. You can even layer the brand's merino tees under it when mother nature gets really icy.Polo, $110, available at aether.comT-shirt, $90, available at aether.com

Woolpower:When shit gets real, you're going to want this onesie.
Woolpower, a company from Sweden, knows that a little snowfall and sub-freezing temperatures is child's play when it comes to mother nature's true wrath. That's why they don't just make leggings and shirts, but merino wool onesies built for climbing Everest, and wool socks that keep your toes from turning into icicles.
Onesie, available at woolpower.seSocks, $51, available at westerlind.com